Joplin Celebrates the Opening of Two Fire Stations

Joplin Celebrates the Opening of Two Fire Stations

Firefighters moved into both of the new stations in December of last year, just in time for Christmas.

JOPLIN, MO.--- The City of Joplin celebrates the opening of two fire stations. Fire Station 2 formerly sat at 22nd and Maiden Lane but was destroyed in the 2011 tornado. The new building now sits at 13th and Schifferdecker. A review of city growth patterns and the fire department's coverage area prompted the new location. Firefighters have been working in temporary facilities until moving into the new building last month. Fire Chief Mitch Randles says the move provides a sense of normalcy for the firefighters.

"We're not in the temporary structures and we're able to give the crews a atmosphere where they're actually able to operate and function normally," said Mitch Randles, Joplin Fire Chief.

Firefighters and city leaders also celebrated the opening of Fire Station 4 on Hearnes Boulevard. The previous station near 15th and Connecticut was also destroyed in the 2011 tornado. The new building is a two-story design with a historic look of red brick and arched windows, similar to a former fire station in one of the city's older residential areas. The 6,500 square foot building has two truck bays and holds five firefighters in upstairs living quarters. It also has a staircase, elevator, and a tornado safe room.

Firefighters moved into both of the new stations in December of last year, just in time for Christmas.

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